6 Types Of Dental Fillings – Advantages | Disadvantages
There are various types to choose from when it comes to dental fillings. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. This blog post will discuss the 6 most common types of dental fillings and when you should use them. By understanding the different types of dental fillings available, you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your needs!
What Is A Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a material used to fill in a cavity or hole in a tooth. A dental filling aims to protect the tooth from further decay and restore its function and appearance.
What Materials Are Dental Fillings Made From?
Dental fillings can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Gold
- Silver
- Porcelain
- Composite resin
- Ceramic
6 Types Of Dental Fillings
Each type of dental filling has its advantages and disadvantages. Here is a closer look at the most common types of dental fillings:
01: Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They have been used for over 150 years and are one of the most affordable types of dental fillings available. Amalgam fillings are also very durable and can last for up to 15 years with proper care. However, amalgam fillings are not as aesthetically pleasing as other dental fillings and can darken the tooth over time.
Advantages:
– Silver fillings are less expensive than gold fillings.
– Silver fillings can be placed in one visit to the dentist.
Disadvantages:
– Silver fillings are not as strong or durable as gold fillings and may need to be replaced more often.
– Silver fillings may corrode over time and cause discoloration of the tooth.
02: Composite Fillings
It is Made from a mixture of plastic and glass. They are designed to match the color of your teeth, making them a more aesthetically pleasing option than amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are also less likely to crack or chip than amalgam fillings. However, they are not as durable and typically only last for about five to seven years.
Advantages:
– Composite fillings match the color with the teeth, so they are less noticeable than silver fillings.
– Composite fillings do not corrode or wear down over time.
Disadvantages:
– Composite fillings are more expensive than silver fillings.
– Composite fillings may require two visits to the dentist because they need to be placed in layers and allowed to harden before being polished.
03: Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy and are usually considered the most durable dental filling. It lasts up to 15-20 years with care. Gold fillings are also very aesthetically pleasing and will not discolor your teeth over time. However, gold fillings are the most expensive type of dental filling available.
Advantages:
– Gold fillings are very strong and durable and can last for many years.
– Gold fillings do not corrode or wear down over time.
Disadvantages:
– Gold fillings are more expensive than silver fillings.
– Gold fillings may require two visits to the dentist because they need to be placed in layers and allowed to harden before being polished.
04: Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made from a porcelain material designed to match your natural teeth’s color. They are durable and typically last for about 15 years with proper care. Ceramic fillings are also very aesthetically pleasing and will not discolor your teeth over time. However, ceramic fillings can be more expensive than other dental fillings.
Advantages:
– Ceramic fillings are made of a tooth-colored resin mixed with glass particles.
– Ceramic fillings can bond directly to your teeth and support the structure of your tooth.
Disadvantages:
– Ceramic fillings may not be as strong as other types of dental fillings and may not last as long.
05: Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a translucent glass material mixed with an acid. They are typically used to fill cavities in the front teeth. They are less likely to cause tooth decay than other dental fillings. Glass ionomer fillings also tend to stain over time, making them less likely aesthetically pleasing.
Advantages:
– Glass ionomer fillings are made of a tooth-colored resin mixed with glass particles.
– It can bond directly to your teeth and support the structure of your tooth.
– It release fluoride, which helps protect your teeth from cavities.
Disadvantages:
– Glass ionomer fillings are not as strong as other types of dental fillings and may not last as long.
06: Porcelain Filling
Porcelain fillings are often used to fill cavities in the back teeth, as they are strong and durable. However, porcelain fillings can also be quite expensive and may not be available in every dental office.
Conclusion
Dental fillings are an important part of oral health. There are a variety of dental fillings to choose from, so it’s important to select the right one for your needs. We hope this article has helped you learn more about the different types of dental fillings available and how to select the best one for you. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our professional dentist. We would be happy to help!
